president obama is rehearsing with john kerry while mitt romney is squaring off against rob portman. both have challenges and check lifts. is working on shorter answers and trying to avoid sounding like the professor he was before the white house. democrats say he needs to look strong and forceful and not appear irritated or i am pat. >> they are trying to get him in the mode of being able to answer questions short and to the point. so it is more like his man errisms, style, and the way he comes across. >> reporter: and mitt romney, he has to seem friend li err, after the 47% comments. he needs to show compassion and connect with voters. romney arrived in colorado to continue his prep but took a brief break to rally supporters. >> what a colorado welcome. thank you so much. >> reporter: he also took a break with a visit to a nevada campaign office. >> this is obama, how are you? >> a new poll found that 56% expect the president to win the debates. lowered expectations could be good for romney, if he turns in a strong performance they can boast a big win and leave denver can momentum.